CATWALK NATIONAL RECREATION TRAIL
Located in the Gila National Forest, this two-mile out-and-back hike snakes its way through a slot canyon along a suspended walkway that follows a mining water-pipeline route dating to the 1890s. Bring your water shoes and take a dip in the cool creek or pack along a fly rod for a chance at catching native Gila trout.
San Lorenzo Canyon Trail winds through sandstone formations just north of Socorro.
Photograph by NMTD.
SAN LORENZO CANYON TRAIL
Located just north of Socorro, the San Lorenzo Canyon Trail combines wide-open spaces, expansive views, spectacular geology, and excellent wildlife watching. Very much off the beaten path, the 1.8-mile loop trail is relatively flat and includes some fun side trails for those interested in extending the hike.
Hike the slot canyons in the Robledo Mountains near Las Cruces.
Photograph by NMTD.
LEASBURG SLOT CANYON
This gem of a 2.2-mile loop trail can be found just north of Las Cruces on the west side of the Río Grande in the Robledo Mountains Wilderness Study Area. You’ll first cross the Río Grande on foot for this somewhat challenging route, then follow the sandy wash to the slot canyon. The slot canyon eventually opens to a rocky ridge with impressive views. The best times to visit are November through April.
JEMEZ RIVER EAST SLOT CANYON
The Jemez East River Slot Canyon features stunning red rock formations and narrow passages. Located near the village of Jemez Springs, the easy 4.8-mile out-and-back trail with very little elevation change leads to a series of lovely waterfalls and natural swimming pools. Bring your camera; this place is quite photogenic.
Note: When exploring New Mexico’s slot canyons, be aware of the weather. Distant thunderstorms can create dangerous flash flood conditions in narrow passageways.
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